Rooted in our community Committed to our future Linda Rodriguez for Mayor
About Linda
Community First
Linda Rodriguez has proudly called Port Richey home for 39 years. She has worked, raised her family, and dedicated her life to serving others right here in Pasco County. Her deep roots in the community and lifelong commitment to care and leadership make her uniquely qualified to serve as Mayor.
Linda knew from the age of 13 that she wanted to become a nurse. That calling led her to begin her nursing career in West Islip, New York, before relocating to Port Richey in 1987. She
continued her work as a Registered Nurse, ultimately dedicating 50 years to caring for patients and families with compassion, professionalism, and integrity.
While working full-time and raising two children, Linda pursued higher education at Saint Leo University, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration in 2000. Her
determination and work ethic reflect the values she has carried throughout her career and personal life.
During her decades in healthcare, Linda stepped into leadership roles where she managed budgets, supervised personnel, identified areas for improvement, and implemented strategic
plans to achieve measurable success. She understands how to balance fiscal responsibility with effective team leadership—skills that are essential in city government.
Linda Rodriguez brings experience, dedication, and a servant’s heart to everything she does. Her lifelong commitment to caring for people, strengthening organizations, and improving systems
reflects her vision for Port Richey’s future: strong leadership, responsible management, and a community that continues to thrive for generations to come.
Accomplishments & Leadership
Linda Rodriguez became actively involved in Port Richey city government following the passing of her husband, turning personal loss into a renewed commitment to serving her community. Her journey in public service began as a volunteer with the City’s Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), where she quickly demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a passion for community engagement. Within a year, she was elected Chairwoman of the committee.
Renaming and Rebranding the Waterfront District
Under her leadership, the Citizens Advisory Committee successfully led the effort to rename the Waterfront Overlay District to Cotee River Landing. What made this accomplishment especially meaningful was the process: the new name was selected entirely through community suggestions and resident voting.
Chairwoman Rodriguez and the CAC believed that rebranding the area would help attract new businesses, encourage thoughtful development, and establish the waterfront as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike. The goal was clear—to create a vibrant area where families could walk, shop, dine, and enjoy Port Richey’s beautiful sunsets.
Elected to City Council – 2022
In 2022, Linda was honored to be elected to the Port Richey City Council. During her tenure, she strongly supported enhancements to Cotee River Landing, including:
- Improved and expanded lighting
- Installation of sidewalks throughout the area
- Street improvements
- Additional street parking
She advocated for these infrastructure upgrades because she believes strategic improvements can stimulate economic growth, attract new businesses, and enhance safety and accessibility for residents. Her vision has always centered on creating a destination that families and visitors can enjoy while strengthening the local economy.
Although the project was later placed on hold by the current council, her commitment to thoughtful, forward-looking development remains steadfast.
A Commitment to Listening to Residents
One of Councilwoman Rodriguez’s defining principles is simple: listen first.
When a development project was proposed for Cotee River Landing/Gill Dawg’s, she raised an important question: “What do the residents of Miller’s Bayou think?” When that outreach had not been conducted, she took action.
She independently developed a community survey addressing four key questions that were scheduled to come before the City Council. By gathering direct feedback from residents, she ensured their voices were represented during council discussions. Using the survey results, she asked informed questions at city meetings and cast her votes in alignment with the expressed will of the community.
Leadership Rooted in Community
Linda Rodriguez approaches public service with transparency, accountability, and a strong belief in citizen participation. Whether leading the Citizens Advisory Committee or serving on the City Council, she has consistently worked to:
- Engage residents in decision-making
- Support responsible economic development
- Improve infrastructure and public spaces
- Protect neighborhood interests
Her leadership reflects her lifelong commitment to service, thoughtful planning, and putting the people of Port Richey first.
Myth vs. Fact
Setting the Record Straight
In today’s political climate, misinformation spreads quickly. I believe in transparency and accountability, so I want to address a few common misconceptions directly.
Myth #1: Linda voted to raise taxes.
Fact:
I made a motion to maintain the current millage rate (tax rate). The motion failed due to a lack of a second.
The Reality:
In 2023, the cost of nearly everything increased — including wages, fuel for city vehicles, equipment needed to repair lift stations, and other operational expenses. In 2025, City Council wages doubled and the Mayor’s compensation tripled.
Given rising operational costs, I believed maintaining the existing millage rate would ensure the City kept revenue stable to responsibly cover expenses without reducing services to residents. My goal has always been fiscal stability and responsible budgeting.
Myth #2: Linda is against people making money.
Fact:
That statement was a misspeak, and I corrected it at the very next meeting.
The Reality:
I unintentionally left out one important word: “not.” What I meant to say — and what I firmly believe — is:
“I am NOT opposed to people making money.”
I fully support local businesses, entrepreneurs, and responsible economic growth. Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and I want to see them succeed.
Myth #3: Linda is against development.
Fact:
I have consistently supported responsible development and economic revitalization.
The Reality:
As Chairwoman of the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), I led the effort to rename the Waterfront Overlay District to Cotee River Landing — an initiative designed specifically to attract new businesses and stimulate commercial growth.
As a Councilwoman, I strongly supported continued revitalization efforts in Cotee River Landing, including infrastructure improvements aimed at drawing new investment and making the area a vibrant destination for residents and visitors.
I believe in smart, strategic development — growth that strengthens our economy while protecting our neighborhoods and preserving our community character.
My Commitment
I will always:
- Be transparent about my decisions
- Correct the record when necessary
- Support responsible economic growth
- Make decisions based on what is best for the residents of Port Richey
Leadership requires honesty, and I will continue to stand by the facts.
Linda's Pledge
Linda Rodriguez is committed to leading Port Richey with transparency, accountability, and a deep respect for its residents. Her platform focuses on responsible economic growth, supporting local businesses, protecting neighborhood character, and ensuring fiscally sound decision-making that keeps the city stable and thriving. She believes in listening first, valuing community input, and making choices that reflect the needs and priorities of the people. Through thoughtful leadership and a servant’s heart, she aims to strengthen public trust, encourage investment, and build a vibrant future for all who call Port Richey home.
